Metabolic syndrome, a combination of symptoms including high blood pressure, diabetes, and obesity, is a contributing factor to cardiovascular illness and can be potentially fatal. According to the original NHANES report, metabolic syndrome continues to be a pervasive problem in the U.S.

However, according to the analysis conducted by the University of Miami Leonard M. Miller School of Medicine, recently published by the American Journal of Medicine, reveals individuals who consume cannabis — even in a smokable form — are approximately 50 percent less likely to have metabolic syndrome than those who have never used cannabis.

This may seem ironic as historically, the popular narrative is to portray cannabis users as lazy, munchie-obsessed slackers, who lead a sedentary lifestyle, leading many to assume that cannabis users would be more inclined to acquire metabolic syndrome. However, research suggests just the opposite.

What reverses insulin resistance? Cannabis. It turns out that the cannabinoid system is intimately involved in sugar and energy utilization. – Julie Holland, MD

To read this article in its entirety and learn more of the key findings from the original National Health and Nutrition Examination Study and the findings from the University of Miami Leonard M. Miller School of Medicine’s analysis of the study, read my article, “Cannabis Lower Blood Pressure and Diabetes Risk” on Cashinbis.com”

Jeremy Kossen is an entrepreneur and startup advisor. Passionate on a diverse cross-section of topics, he podcasts and contributes to various print and media publications across tech, psychology and legal cannabis/medical marijuana. Follow him on Twitter @jeremykossen.